ICD-10 Code L97.109 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified thigh with unspecified severity (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L97.109 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified thigh with unspecified severity
What it is
This code identifies a chronic, non-pressure ulcer on the thigh when the exact side and severity are not documented. Use it for an open skin lesion of the thigh that is not caused by pressure.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a persistent open sore on the thigh with tissue breakdown, drainage, or delayed healing. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use L97.109 when the record clearly states a chronic non-pressure ulcer of the thigh but does not specify laterality or severity. It also fits when the provider documents an ulcer of the thigh and no more precise code is supported. Check documentation if the cause or depth is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers, acute wounds, or ulcers on another anatomic site. If the record identifies a more specific side, severity, or etiology, code that instead.
Coding tip
Query for laterality and ulcer depth when the note is incomplete, because unspecified coding should be used only when documentation truly lacks detail.